Lead Mechanical Engineer (Onsite)

RESPONSIBILITIES:
Kforce's clientm, a rapidly growing engineering technology company in Chandler, AZ, is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer/Chief Engineer to lead advanced product development initiatives. This is a 100% onsite role and a direct partnership with the hiring manager.
Position Overview:
The Chief Engineer will lead the design and development of advanced electromechanical systems supporting internally and externally funded R&D programs. This role owns the full product lifecycle, from concept through prototype, testing, and transition to production, with applications across UAVs, ground vehicles, aircraft, and infrastructure security systems. This individual will operate with a high degree of autonomy, provide technical leadership, and mentor a small team of engineers while driving engineering excellence and program success.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead the design and development of new products and technologies using SolidWorks
* Own programs from concept through production, including architecture, execution, and delivery
* Oversee prototype builds, qualification testing, and product transition to manufacturing
* Develop and review technical documentation (design reviews, trade studies, test plans/reports, requirements tracking, CDRLs/SDRLs)
* Maintain and improve legacy products, processes, and standard operating procedures
* Support bids, proposals, and business development initiatives
* Establish performance metrics and engineering best practices
* Lead and mentor 2-3 engineers, including task delegation and technical guidance
REQUIREMENTS:
* BS in Mechanical Engineering (or related discipline)
* 10+ years of product development experience, including 5+ years of experience with electromechanical systems
* Strong proficiency with SolidWorks and project/program leadership
* Deep understanding of ASME Y14.100 and ASME Y14.5 (GD&T) standards
* Experience in DoD or defense-related product development (UAVs, ground, marine, or aircraft platforms)
* Demonstrated ability to lead projects, drive execution, and manage full product lifecycle
* Strong communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills
Preferred Qualifications:
* MS in Mechanical Engineering (or related field)
* Experience with composites, electronics integration
* Background in automotive or other regulated manufacturing environments
The pay range is the lowest to highest compensation we reasonably in good faith believe we would pay at posting for this role. We may ultimately pay more or less than this range. Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.
We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave.
Note: Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any compensation remains in Kforce's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified in its discretion consistent with the law.
This job is not eligible for bonuses, incentives or commissions.
Kforce is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.
By clicking ?Apply Today? you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages or emails from Kforce and its affiliates, and service providers. Note that if you choose to communicate with Kforce via text messaging the frequency may vary, and message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You will always have the right to cease communicating via text by using key words such as STOP.